Family Budget Tips: Summer Time Fun -- Free and Low Cost By Michelle P. Sharrow, MBA

Once again, summer is slowly encroaching upon us and summer camps are filling up rather quickly. Are you still scrambling around searching for low costs yet fun things for your children to do? If so, I've gotten wind of a few things that I'd like to share with you.

Free Bowling Games

Select AMC bowling centers are running a free summer program for kids. It is called the Kids Bowl Free Program. With this program, children can play two free games of bowling every day throughout the summer. All you have to do is visit kidsbowlfree.com, select the bowling center that you'd like to visit, and enter your children's names and birth dates. The Kids Bowl Free Program kicks off on June 1st.

Summer Reading Programs at Local Libraries

The Collaborative Summer Local Library Program (CSLP) is a nationwide summer reading program for kids. This program encourages kids to use their local libraries throughout the summer. Because of the wide variety of books and magazines available at the library, your children can explore many different parts of the world from their bedrooms or the back seat of your car all summer long. Visit your local library to learn more about the details of the program and special kickoff events.

Workshops & Demonstrations at Local Craft Stores

Local craft stores such as Michaels and AC Moores hold workshops and demonstrations for children all the time. For a low cost which usually includes the materials, children can learn scrapbooking, beading or calligraphy, among many other things. Trained specialists will teach them the tricks of the trade so that they can start new hobbies that they can perfect all summer long. You can use the coupons from the weekly inserts to save on any supplies that are required to keep your child engaged all summer long.

Free Opportunities at Local Retail Stores

Barnes and Nobles has a summer reading program too. To participate, children must read eight books of their choosing. After reading each book, they simply write about their favorite parts in a journal. Once they have read all eight books, they will receive a coupon for a free one. You can find out more about the program on the Barnes and Nobles' website.

Toys R Us also holds free activities for children. I've seen flyers announcing story times with famous characters such as Thomas the Tank Engine, parties, and craft making. You can stay in the know about these types of activities by signing up for the e-mail list on the store's website or by checking out weekly store ads.

Daily Matinees

I don't know any child who doesn't like to watch movies on the big screen. Take advantage of the lower matinee rates and take your child to see at least one new release.

This summer doesn't have to be just another boring one. There are several inexpensive and fun things that you can do to make it memorable without going broke. Additionally, spending quality time with your kids while they participate in these activities will make it even more special.

Michelle is a freelance writer based in Waldorf, Maryland. Her areas of expertise include finances and parenting. Visit her on the web at http://www.michellesharrow.com.

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